Vertigo is the unpleasant sensation of feeling off balance, often described as a “dizzy spell.” If you suffer from vertigo, you may feel like you are spinning – or, conversely, like the world around you is spinning. And while vertigo is often caused by an inner ear problem, there are several factors to take into consideration when it comes to how to diagnose vertigo.
How to Diagnose Vertigo
Types of Vertigo
Before a doctor can properly diagnose vertigo, they must first determine if the vertigo is peripheral or central.
Peripheral vertigo is the most common type of vertigo, and problems in the inner ear typically cause it. Peripheral vertigo originates in the vestibular system, the tiny organs and channels in the inner ear that control balance. Specific head movements – like turning your head to one side – often trigger peripheral vertigo. Patients with peripheral vertigo often experience hearing loss and tinnitus in addition to vertigo.
Central vertigo, on the other hand, begins outside of the inner ear. A medical condition in a small area of the brain leads to this type of vertigo; specifically, the area that controls balance and spatial awareness. Central vertigo can result from an injury like a concussion or a condition like stroke.
Dix-Hallpike Test for Vertigo
The first vertigo test doctors typically run is known as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver. While this maneuver might sound complicated, it’s actually quite simple. The Dix-Hallpike is used to test for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the most common cause of vertigo. To conduct this test, your healthcare provider will simply turn your head 45 degrees to one side. Then, you’ll quickly lie on your back, with your head off the side of the table, maintaining the 45-degree head turn for at least 30 seconds. If you experience vertigo during this test, you likely have BPPV.
Audiometric Tests for Vertigo
If the Dix-Hallpike maneuver is inconclusive, doctors often opt for audiometric tests. These are simple hearing tests that help doctors assess the nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain. For example, one of these tests involves a sensitive probe that produces a combination of sounds in the ear canal. If the inner ear is working as it should, the sensory receptors in the ear will send an echo to the probe. If the inner ear is not functioning properly, the probe won’t be able to detect an echo.
Other Tests for Vertigo
If your doctor is unable to draw a conclusion from the Dix-Hallpike or audiometric tests, there are several other testing options:
- Videonystagmography: This type of testing allows audiologists to record and interpret eye movements, which can help assess the inner ear. During this test, patients wear a pair of infrared light goggles to allow the doctor to record eye movements.
- Head Impulse Test: This test evaluates the partnership between your eyes and inner ears. In this simple test, your doctor will quickly rotate your head to assess your reflex functions.
- Romberg Test: This is another straightforward test that can help determine the cause of a case of vertigo. In this test, patients are asked to stand with both feet together, then close their eyes. The doctor uses the ensuing swaying or balance issues to assess the cause of vertigo.
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Determining how to diagnose vertigo takes a few things into account – namely, preexisting conditions, the type of vertigo, and the severity of the condition. Through a series of simple tests like the ones described above, doctors can quickly diagnose vertigo and provide relief to patients.
Are you struggling with vertigo? Are you in need of medical advice and wondering where to turn? Reach out to the professionals at the National Dizzy & Balance Center. We specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders, including concussions and ongoing dizziness. Our talented team members can evaluate the extent of your concussion and design a personalized plan to relieve your symptoms. To learn more about our approach to dizziness management, please contact us online or by phone. Or if you’re ready to get started, schedule your free medical consultation today.